Increase in Flu Cases: Time to Get Vaccinated

According to the data acquired by the National Public Health Centre under the Ministry of Health (NPHC), during week 48/2024 (25 November – 1 December), the overall incidence rate of influenza, acute upper respiratory tract infections (AURTI), and COVID-19 was 1300.6 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to 1199.9 cases per 100,000 the previous week. Cases of influenza and AURTI have increased, while COVID-19 cases have declined.

The lowest incidence was recorded in Utena County, while the highest was in Vilnius County. The epidemic threshold was reached in the Municipalities of Tauragė District, Vilnius City, and Vilnius District, surpassing 1500 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.

Last week in Lithuania, 14 individuals were hospitalized due to influenza (up from 12 the week before), while 30 were hospitalized for COVID-19 (down from 62 the previous week). Two individuals were treated in intensive care for complications related to influenza and COVID-19. No deaths from influenza were reported, but there was one fatality from COVID-19—a 38-year-old individual who was unvaccinated this season and had underlying health conditions and severe complications.

Data on the incidence of influenza, ARI and COVID-19 in Counties

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), data from week 47 indicates that the overall AURTI incidence is similar to the same period last year. Influenza rates across the European Union and European Economic Area remain low. COVID-19 activity continues to decline, though the threat among people aged 65 and older remains. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) activity has increased, particularly among children aged 0–4, signalling the start of a seasonal RSV epidemic. Countries should prepare for increased RSV activity in the coming weeks.

Source: https://erviss.org

Vaccination is the most effective protection
If you have not vaccinated yet or are still uncertain about the flu and COVID-19 vaccines, there is still time to protect yourself by getting vaccinated during a single visit to your doctor. Those in risk groups (people aged 65 and older, residents of social care and nursing facilities, individuals with chronic illnesses, people with weakened immune systems, healthcare workers, pregnant women) are especially encouraged to act quickly.

This flu season, children aged 2–7 can also receive state-funded vaccinations. It is worth noting that nearly half (50%) of AURTI and flu cases are among children, with 54% of last week’s cases affecting children. NPHC specialists emphasize that flu can lead to severe complications in children, such as pneumonia, sinusitis, ear infections, encephalitis, and exacerbation of chronic conditions like asthma. Children with pre-existing conditions are at a higher risk of hospitalization.

COVID-19 vaccinations are available at any healthcare facility, while free flu vaccines are limited to risk groups and must be obtained at the facility where the individual is registered.

Preventative hygiene measures
NVSC specialists recommend adhering to hygiene practices to prevent respiratory illnesses:

• Cover your nose and mouth with disposable tissues when coughing or sneezing (or use a handkerchief or your bent elbow).
• Wash hands regularly with soap.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
• Frequently clean and ventilate indoor spaces.

If you experience flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, headache, joint pain, etc.), contact your family doctor immediately.

Last updated: 03-12-2024

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